Haslam, Bredesen Kick off Constitutional Campaign

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP/WMOT) —Gov. Bill Haslam has kicked off a campaign in support of an amendment to the Tennessee constitution that would change the way State Supreme Court justices and appeals judges are appointed and retained.

Haslam was joined at a kickoff event Wednesday in the Old Supreme Court Chamber in the State Capital by a number of dignitaries, including his Democratic predecessor, Phil Bredesen.

“Ensuring that we have a judiciary that’s selected in a smart, intelligent and proper way that’s responsible to the people in that process is one of the most important things we could possibly do.”

The campaign dubbed "Vote Yes on 2" is in support of the proposed amendment, which would allow governors to appoint justices and then have those judges stand for elections. The State Legislature would have the authority to reject the governor's selections.

Supporters say the amendment will improve the current system and prevent it from being struck down by a court opinion.